IVC Filter

[Fatdiva14 47]

Does anyone have to get an IVC filter before surgery?

I was told at my initial consult back in June that I would have to get a temporary retrievable filter, or the permanent one, to avoid blood clots traveling to my heart and lungs. The retrievable one could be removed after 6-7 months.

I just left the doctor's office, and thought I was going to opt for the retrievable one, but since there is always a risk for blood clots to form after the surgery, I think I'm going to go with the permanent one.

[Essence46 493]

I have a permanent one. I can't even tell it's there.

[BLERDgirl 6,417]

I had the temporary one. I had it place the day before surgery. My surgeon did it as a precaution. I don't have a history of clots, my veins were clear on US, but I have a high BMI. It was done as a short procedure and I couldn't even feel the difference. I just had it removed Monday. The surgeon went in through the PICC line and retrieved it. I had some soreness on my neck, but a few days with a heating pad has taken care of that. Since I had an uneventful surgical course and I had not history of clots it was removed at 4 months.

[Fatdiva14 47]

@@Essence46

What made you opt for the permanent one?

I keep going back and forth, but I really don't want to chance it if there is a possibility. I never had a history of clots, but knowing there is room for the potential threat...I don't know.

[Fatdiva14 47]

@@BLERDgirl

I hear you. The thought of the potential risk really scares me. Not sure which route I should really take.

[BLERDgirl 6,417]

I knew I had no family history, my US were clear and I was active enough to make it a non issue. I liked having it as a precaution for surgery but didn't feel I needed it inside of me permanently. Especially since my circulation would only improve as I loss weight.

[Essence46 493]

@@Fatdiva14, I decided on the permanent one for precautionary reasons. I took the better safe than sorry route. My doctor assured me that leaving it in would not cause any long term problems or issues. I may decide to have it removed at some point later in life.

[Fatdiva14 47]

@@Essence46

After careful consideration while talking to the physician, and my family, and reading your post, I'm convinced the permanent one is the way to go.

Thank you!

[Fatdiva14 47]

@@Essence46

I just remembered you had your surgery at Providence Hospital. Who performed the IVC filter procedure? I am going to Dr. Nedd. He seems really nice and was very patient while answering all of my questions!